Planting Crepe Myrtle in Summer: A Guide

Summer is a delightful season for gardeners, as it's the perfect time to plant a variety of vibrant and hardy plants. One such plant that thrives in summer is the crepe myrtle, a stunning deciduous tree known for its beautiful, papery flowers and vibrant fall foliage. If you're considering adding crepe myrtles to your landscape, you're in the right place. In this guide, we'll explore how to plant crepe myrtle in summer, ensuring they grow into the magnificent centerpieces they're meant to be.

Crepe myrtles (Lagerstroemia indica) are native to Asia and have been cultivated for centuries for their stunning blooms and elegant form. They are drought-tolerant, low-maintenance trees that can grow up to 25 feet tall, making them an excellent choice for both small and large landscapes. With their showy flowers and attractive bark, crepe myrtles can add a touch of elegance and color to any garden.

Understanding Crepe Myrtle Growth Habits

Before planting crepe myrtles, it's essential to understand their growth habits and requirements. Crepe myrtles are deciduous trees that lose their leaves in fall and remain dormant during winter. They bloom on new wood, which means they produce flowers on the current year's growth. This is an important consideration when pruning, as heavy pruning in late winter or early spring can reduce the number of flowers the following summer.

Crepe myrtles prefer full sun, meaning they need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. They grow best in well-draining soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. While they are drought-tolerant once established, they require regular watering during the first growing season to help them establish strong root systems.

Choosing the Right Crepe Myrtle Variety

When selecting crepe myrtle trees, consider the mature size, flower color, and growth habit. Some varieties are smaller and more compact, making them ideal for smaller landscapes, while others can grow quite large and are better suited for larger properties. Additionally, crepe myrtles come in a variety of flower colors, including white, pink, purple, and red. Some popular varieties include:

• Natchez: A large, white-flowering variety with a rounded growth habit.
• Muskogee: A compact, purple-flowering variety with a rounded growth habit.
• Catawba: A large, purple-red flowering variety with a rounded growth habit.

Preparing the Planting Site

Before planting crepe myrtles, prepare the planting site by removing any weeds or grass. Crepe myrtles are not competitive plants and can struggle when competing with weeds for water and nutrients. Additionally, ensure the planting site has well-draining soil. If the soil is heavy or clay-like, consider planting the crepe myrtle in a raised bed or amending the soil with organic matter to improve drainage.

Crepe myrtles prefer a planting depth that matches the root flare, which is the point where the roots meet the trunk. To determine the correct planting depth, measure the distance from the root flare to the bottom of the root ball. Dig a hole that is twice as wide but no deeper than the root ball. This will ensure that the crepe myrtle is planted at the correct depth and has enough room for its roots to spread.

Planting Crepe Myrtle in Summer

Summer is an ideal time to plant crepe myrtles, as the warm weather promotes rapid growth and helps the trees establish strong root systems. However, it's essential to plant crepe myrtles during the cooler hours of the day to prevent heat stress. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to plant.

To plant crepe myrtles, follow these steps:

1. Remove the crepe myrtle from its container, gently loosening any circling roots.
2. Place the tree in the planting hole, ensuring the root flare is level with the ground.
3. Backfill the hole with native soil, gently pressing it down to eliminate air pockets.
4. Water the tree thoroughly to settle the soil and remove any air pockets.
5. Mulch around the base of the tree with a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or pine straw. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

Caring for Crepe Myrtles After Planting

After planting, crepe myrtles require regular watering during the first growing season to help them establish strong root systems. Water the tree deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall and soil conditions. Once the crepe myrtle is established, it will require less frequent watering, as they are drought-tolerant.

Fertilize crepe myrtles sparingly, as they prefer leaner soil. Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring, following the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall, as this can encourage new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.

Pruning Crepe Myrtles

Pruning crepe myrtles is essential to maintain their attractive shape and encourage flower production. The best time to prune crepe myrtles is in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches, as well as any suckers growing from the base of the tree.

Crepe myrtles can be pruned into various shapes, including rounded, vase, or standard forms. When pruning, follow these guidelines:

• Prune crepe myrtles just above a healthy bud or branch.
• Do not remove more than one-third of the tree's canopy at a time.
• Avoid "topping" crepe myrtles, as this can encourage weak growth and reduce flower production.

Crepe myrtles are stunning trees that can add beauty and interest to any landscape. By understanding their growth habits and providing them with the care they need, you can enjoy their beautiful flowers and attractive bark for years to come. So, go ahead and plant some crepe myrtles this summer, and watch as your garden transforms into a vibrant, blooming oasis.